Now in its 13th year, the event saw almost 300 leading people from local businesses and other organisations gather at the John Fretwell Sporting Complex, Sookholme.

They acknowledged and rewarded success and achievements of businesses, organisations and their staff as well as contributions to the economic development of the north Nottinghamshire area.

There were eight categories of awards, ranging from entrepreneurial spirit to business of the year and the 2020 Outstanding Contribution to Mansfield and Ashfield Award.

Business of the Year was Premier Security 24/7 UK Ltd and the outstanding contribution award was given to Tony Delahunty, the voice of Mansfield 103.2 radio station, in recognition of his work to promote Ashfield and Mansfield.

Over the last couple of decades, as well as being the “guiding mind” behind the radio station, he has tirelessly and continuously supported the local community in many ways.

He has been president of Mansfield and District Scout Association, as well as being a promoter and champion of a variety of charities and events.

Commenting on this award Russell Jones, chairman of 2020, said: “Tony has done so much for our area and within our community. He’s committed to improving the area, driving the economy forward and simply making things happen.

“He is an inspiration and we are very proud of him.”

The full list of winners:

Commitment to the Community 2019 (sponsored by Mansfield District Council) — Portland Pathways. Business in the Community 2019 (sponsored by Banner Jones Solicitors) — Mansfield Building Society. Young Apprentice of the Year 2019 (sponsored by Asmech Systems Limited) — Luan Windley, The Adventure Service/Vision West Nottinghamshire College. Customer Focus Initiative (sponsored by Personnel Solutions (Midlands) Limited) — Fidler & Pepper Lawyers. Entrepreneurial Spirit (sponsored by Discover Ashfield) — Halo Recruit Ltd. Excellence in Innovation & Design (sponsored by Ron Brooks (Mansfield) Limited) — Midlands Asset Finance Ltd. New Business of the Year 2019 (sponsored by Ashfield Effluent Services Ltd) — PNE Controls Limited. Business of the Year 2019 (sponsored by R.E.A.L. Education) — Premier Security 24/7 UK Ltd. Lifetime Achievement Award (sponsored by Ashfield District Council) — Tony Delahunty, of Mansfield 103.2FM. Special Award for work under its Commitment to the Community banner — Queen Elizabeth’s Academy. Main event sponsors — i-Sourcer and Mansfield Building Society

Beefy’s Caricatures provided the entertainment throughout the evening followed by the band, Gentlemen of Leisure.

Russell added: “Without the loyalty of our members and valued support from our sponsors we would not have been able to have held an event that simply overwhelmed our attendees and rightfully delivered an evening that everyone truly deserved. For that, we are extremely grateful to them.

“This was our 13th annual awards evening and each year we attract more and more businesses — not only to enter for an award but to join us on the night to celebrate our community and support one another.

“This is a true reflection of the desire and drive to put Mansfield and Ashfield on the map. The atmosphere was electric and we are very proud to be able to host an event that truly showcases excellence.”

Mansfield and Ashfield 2020 is a not-for-profit organisation and very much relies on the loyalty of members and sponsorship to be able to host such a prestigious event.